How A Wrongful Death Lawsuit Affects The Grieving Process

When a wrongful death lawsuit is on the table, you're recovering from the shock of losing a loved one coupled with processing the tragedy of what took them too soon. Pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit can affect the grieving processes exponentially. Every wrongful death case will be different, but it's important to understand how this process will affect you.

Grief And Anguish

It's important to take as much time as necessary to take care of your needs during the wrongful death lawsuit process. You'll be experiencing denial that your loved one's life was taken too soon, and anger that they were taken from you. During the lawsuit process, you may find these stages of grief rehashed as the lawsuit progresses. During this time, you may want to meet with a mental health care professional to help you process your feelings. 

The Role Of Adequate Compensation

Your loved one was more than just a number. They fulfilled a network of needs in your life that can't be summarized by a dollar amount. However, if your loved one was taken from you in a negligent or careless act it is your right to seek compensation. This compensation can be used to cover the financial burdens of an unexpected death such as funeral expenses, loans and medical costs.

Every person's role in your life is different, and, therefore, the compensation you're entitled to will reflect that role. Your lawyer will work through this process with you to figure out the amount of compensation necessary to ease the burdens of:

• Mental Anguish: This is the burden of grief you must endure due to the loss of your loved one.
• Lost Income: Compensation for lost income includes not only how much your loved one would earn during their lifetime but how much they could potentially earn as well.
• Noneconomic Losses: Compensation for noneconomic losses seeks to compensate you for the lost love, comfort and assistance your loved one would have provided.

Obtaining Closure  

While you may struggle to get through the grieving process during a wrongful death lawsuit, upon completion it may help you gain closure. Depending on the outcome, you may feel that justice has been served. Pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit (click here for more information) will help you to hold the other party accountable for their role in your loved ones passing. Nothing can replace your loved one, but receiving compensation from a wrongful death lawsuit can be a step toward healing in the grieving process.